What is expected at a dissertation defense?
A dissertation defense is generally two to three hours long. Chairs of committees design the defense, so each defense may vary. A common defense style is as follows. Everyone gathers. The student is asked to step outside. The committee discusses format and major issues while the candidate is not in the room (this often takes only a short period of time). The student then reenters and presents for about 10 minutes. Some students discuss the process of writing; some offer a self-evaluation of the argument or a self-assessment of the dissertation’s strengths and weaknesses; some address what questions remain. Each student should discuss the opening presentation in advance with his or her advisor. After this, the committee poses questions to the student, who answers. At the end of the defense, the student will leave the room and the committee will deliberate. In most cases, the student will hear after this deliberation whether or not he or she has passed and will be awarded with the PhD, o
